About / History

Four decades of reliability, service and customer satisfaction.

About Pilatus

Founded over 42 years ago, Pilatus Engineering Company Limited is a proudly Zambian-owned company registered under the Companies Act. Originally established as a motor vehicle workshop, the company has grown into a trusted leader in the automotive industry, representing prestigious brands such as BMW, BYD, and Mazda. Through decades of excellence, Pilatus has built a strong reputation for reliability, professionalism, and efficient service delivery across vehicle sales, servicing, and customer support. As a trusted link between manufacturers and clients, the company continues to provide tailored automotive solutions that meet the evolving needs of its customers.

Pilatus is widely recognized for its quality service, driven by a team of highly experienced and dedicated professionals committed to total customer satisfaction. Our skilled personnel across Sales, Marketing, and After-Sales departments work closely with clients to deliver practical, innovative, and customer-focused solutions that ensure efficiency, dependability, and an exceptional overall experience. With a proven track record of timely vehicle deliveries and the ability to meet individual customer requirements, Pilatus remains committed to building long-term relationships founded on trust, excellence, and outstanding service.

Founder Profile

Josef N. Huwiler — Founder & Executive Chairman

Mr. Josef N. Huwiler is the visionary founder of Pilatus Engineering. His automotive expertise, dedication to quality workmanship and long-term commitment to Zambia laid the foundation for the company’s enduring success.

From a motor vehicle repair centre established in 1981, Pilatus grew into a trusted automotive business serving BMW, Mazda, BYD, Saurer, parts, service and after-sales clients across Zambia.

Company History

1974–1975: Josef N. Huwiler trained in Luzern, Switzerland and arrived in Zambia as workshop service advisor for Daimler Benz.

1981: Pilatus Engineering founded as a motor vehicle repair centre.

1983: Pilatus secured the BMW dealership for Zambia.

1997: Land Rover distribution rights were awarded during the BMW/Land Rover partnership.

1999: Pilatus acquired the Mazda franchise.

Present: Expanded into BYD electric vehicles, Mazda, BMW service, Saurer trucks, parts and after-sales services.

Our Vision

Our vision is to be the preferred supplier in Zambia of top-branded vehicles, delivering quality after-sales service at highly competitive prices. We have established a strong reputation in the motor vehicle industry based on our reliability and efficient service across both Sales and Service departments. With a proven dynamic track record of timely delivery of ordered vehicles and the ability to meet individual client requirements, our dedicated team consistently strives to exceed expectations and foster long-lasting, satisfied customer relationships

Leadership

Team Behind the Success Story

The continued growth and success of Pilatus Engineering Company Limited is driven by a passionate team of experienced professionals committed to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Guided by strong leadership and a shared vision, the company continues to build lasting relationships, deliver exceptional service, and maintain its reputation as a trusted leader in Zambia’s automotive industry.

Josef N. Huwiler

Executive Chairman

Visionary founder whose expertise and dedication laid the foundation for the company’s enduring success.

Angelika Huwiler Andersen

Managing Director

Managing Director and founder/managing director at Foxdale Forest, Zambia’s greenest developments.

Tue Nyboe Andersen

Finance Director

14 years of hands-on experience in investments and corporate finance advisory in Zambia.

Namwinga Namusamba

General Manager

Over 15 years of experience in the motor vehicle industry; former CEO of one of Zambia’s top dealerships.

Alick Sinyiza

Workshop Manager

Over 15 years international experience with BMW, Mazda and heavy-duty trucks; recently trained as a BYD Specialist.

Jonathan Sakala

CFO

CFO for over nine years, supporting financial health and sustainable growth.